QB11

Zach Mettenberger

QB LSU

Grade

Overview

2013: Played in and started 12 games. Missed Outback Bowl against Iowa after tearing his left ACL in regular-season finale vs. Arkansas. Became third LSU QB to throw for 3,000 yards in a season (Rohan Davey, 3,347 yards in 2001; and JaMarcus Russell, 3,129 yards in 2006). 2012: Started all 13 games. 2011: Played in five games. 2010: Played at Butler Community College, and led Butler to 11-1 record and berth in the JUCO National Championship Game. 2009: Did not play while at Georgia, and transferred after season. Pleaded guilty to two counts of misdemeanor sexual battery after groping a woman at Flip Flops bar near Valdosta. Coach Mark Richt kicked him off the team on April 18, 2010.

Analysis

Strengths

Exceptional size. Outstanding arm strength -- spins it with velocity and can make all the throws. Can drill the deep out and fit it into a tight window across the field throwing to his left. Ran an NFL-style offense under coordinator Cam Cameron and learned how to become more of a leader as a senior.

Weaknesses

Heavy-footed with a long delivery, which translates to the pocket closing on him quickly when he moves and is forced off a spot. Takes unnecessary sacks and is rattled easily under duress. Really labors to hasten his release and get rid of the ball quickly when needed. Has tunnel vision and arms the ball too much. Tends to trigger late and frequently underthrows the deep ball. Does not throw receivers open and forces them to adjust. Can learn to take pace off the ball and throw with more touch, better timing and anticipation. Had a very strong supporting cast with NFL-caliber receivers and a stout offensive line. Weight fluctuated early in his career and arrived at LSU pushing 260 pounds. Is coming off an ACL injury and will require some rehabilitation time. Character will require closer scrutiny.

Draft Projection

Rounds 3-4

Bottom Line

Pure dropback, strong-armed thrower who will require patient, confidence-building play-calling and a clean pocket to function at a high level in the NFL. Has starter talent in a vertical, downfield passing attack if he can learn to take command of a huddle and continue progressing as a decision-maker. How he interviews with teams could go a long way toward determining his draft status.
-Nolan Nawrocki